Our Story

The global Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition is comprised of passionate doctorate and master-level scientists and registered dietitians with varied backgrounds – ranging from nutrition science to public health to food science to microbiology and more! At the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition, our mission is to be the source of health, wellness and nutrition expertise that creates value and growth for General Mills. We believe food should make us better, so we work hard to make food people love, while improving the nutrition of our products.

“Consumers are broadening their perspective and thinking more holistically about the role that food plays in their overall health and wellness. General Mills is innovating to deliver products that link nutrition with health and promote wellness while providing great taste.”

50+ Years Dedicated to Nutrition

Our story started in 1963, when the nutrition department within General Mills was first established to help the company strengthen its health and nutrition expertise. In 1998, we institutionalized the nutrition department naming it the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition to continue to advance nutrition excellence and advise future nutrition capabilities for General Mills.

We are named in honour of James Ford Bell, a lifelong scientist and former General Mills president and chairman. His innovative spirit led to the formation of General Mills in 1928 through the merger of Washburn Crosby, a milling company, and four other mills.

As a leader and innovator, Bell initiated the expansion of the company’s products beyond flour and Wheaties cereal to developing new food products like Cheerios and Kix cereals. In addition, Bell’s laboratories studied vitamins and introduced a process for producing vitamin D to help increase the nutrient density of General Mills’ products.

Bell dedicated his life to philanthropy, conservation and science. We strive to carry on his spirit through our dedicated work in the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition.